Plan a UK road trip if you want to get away from it all, see new places, and enjoy the flexibility of travel. We have listed top UK trip ideas to rejuvenate your mind and soul. This lovely country boasts towering cities, breathtaking national parks, and charming seaside villages. Its extensive road system makes it the perfect destination for a multi-day driving excursion.
From the diverse beaches of England to the untamed splendor of the Scottish Highlands and the thrilling moments of the Welsh national parks, there’s a lot for you to see!
Although summer is ideal for these adventurous journeys, many of Britain’s top drives can be taken year-round, weather permitting. So, if you’re ready, let’s show you the best road trip ideas in the UK, and let’s go!
1. Causeway Coastal Route
This is the first on our list of UK trip road ideas. The Causeway Coastal Route connects Belfast with Derry-Londonderry across 130 miles by car, including nine picturesque loops. You will realize why it is unquestionably one of the most beautiful routes in the UK when you drive it.
This breathtaking path, which hugs the Atlantic coast, is rich in history and folklore. There are nine more authorized scenic roads along the route, so you may divide it into shorter and quicker trips and take your time taking in the scenery.
The route brings you to Northern Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions and monuments. These include the Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Dark Hedges, and the Glens of Antrim. The 40,000 interconnecting basalt columns are one of the reasons to travel this incredible road. Also, you’ll find stunning beaches, fishing villages, rugged castles, and gorse-shrouded valleys.
This drive would be most enjoyable from May to September in the summer. Rathlin Island, the only inhabited offshore island in Northern Ireland, offers walks along the magnificent Gobbins Cliff Path and opportunities for birdwatching in the RSPB reserve.
It’s important to pay attention to your side-view mirror when traveling this popular route because some roads are narrow. To all of the viewers of Game of Thrones on HBO: Game of Thrones, a popular television series, starred Dark Hedges as the Kingsroad. Remember to take your favorite playlist along to avoid road trip boredom.
2. London to South Downs National Park
Since gaining recognition in 2009, the South Downs National Park is one of the UK’s newest national parks. It’s one of the best UK road trip ideas that you’ll absolutely enjoy. Although it offers a very different perspective from some of the other parts of the UK you will see on this tour with its rolling hills, green valleys, and expansive views, it is nevertheless amazing in and of itself.
As with anywhere else on international road trips, you won’t be able to see all of the 670 square kilometers that this place covers in the time you have. However, some of the best-kept mountain bike and hiking routes are also in the South Downs.
Making use of the area’s many hills and coastal trails is a highlight. Although Beachy Head is a very popular route, it is frequently oversubscribed. Instead, we suggest hiking from Seven Sisters Country Park further down the shore. If the weather is appropriate, the sea swimming in this location can be fantastic.
Always check the tide schedule and swim to your abilities. Seeking something to eat or drink? Brighton, a nearby city, has a fantastic selection of vegan restaurants, including vegan sushi and vegan burgers, as well as a variety of inclusive and friendly cafes and bars.
3. Following Hadrian’s Wall (Newcastle to Carlise)
You may experience firsthand the amazing technical achievement of Hadrian’s Wall as you make your way around the solid neck of the island on this UK road. There were two observation turrets between each small fort (mile castle) that defended a doorway every Roman mile (0.95 miles), and several of these still stand today.
16 of the southern forts that stand astride the wall were built as bases after a sequence of them that may have existed earlier. The route is filled with interesting museums, preserved ruins, and easily accessible wall parts that date back to 1900.
Commence at Segedunum, the final standing strongpoint of the wall, in the Wallsend neighborhood of Newcastle. Proceed westward, making stops along the way for exploration. Make sure to visit Chesters Roman Fort and Museum, which has a well-maintained Roman cavalry fort, and Housesteads Roman Fort and Museum, which offers views over the wall and Northumberland National Park’s moors.
4. Ben Nevis to the Isle of Skye
Ben Nevis to the Isle of Skye is among the rough-and-tumble UK road trip ideas. You will be rewarded with views of picturesque lochs, monolithic rocks, and striking landscapes throughout the trip from Scotland’s highest peak to the largest island in the Inner Hebrides archipelago.
In ideal conditions, the 100-mile journey takes around two hours, but you should plan on stopping frequently to take in the many breathtaking views. Neist Point, located on the island’s remote western coast, is the best place to witness the sunset once you’re there. Here, on a rocky outcrop close to Glendale Township, the sun sets over the rippling coastline, bathing it in golden tones.
5. The Norfolk Coast
Start your road trip through the medieval city of Norwich, home to a magnificent cathedral, and continue to Wroxham, the center of the Norfolk Broads. The Broads’ striking scenery and unadulterated beauty will enchant you, and the greatest way to take in this vibrant wildlife sanctuary is from a boat.
Next, head to Cromer, a quintessential bucket-and-spade location featuring a stunning sandy beach, a charming village, and the most delicious fresh fish and chips—still served in newspapers. Try the succulent Cromer crab, which is caught nearby the morning you eat it, if you’re searching for a slightly more sophisticated lunch.
The lovely town of Blakeney is your next destination in this UK road trip. You may go seal-watching from Blakeney Point and catch crabs along the harbor wall here. On to Burnham Market, a charming village encircling a green that boasts a thriving gastronomy scene in addition to many independent galleries and gift shops.
If you want to do some more bucket and spade work, head to Kings Lynn via Hunstanton. Your last destination is Kings Lynn, a charming port city whose past is reflected in the exquisite Custom House that commands a view of the harbor.
6. Cornwall’s Coast
There aren’t many places in the United Kingdom where the landscape is as jaw-dropping, heart-pounding, and eye-opening as Cornwall. It’s one of the best UK road trip ideas. So fasten your seatbelt, throw down the windows, and have your camera ready. This incredible journey begins in the breezy seaside town of Bude and proceeds top to bottom, coast to coast, following the shoreline down, around, and back up again to Fowey.
Along the journey, you’ll come across dazzling beaches, surf bays, and seaside ports in abundance, along with oddities like the magnificent St. Michael’s Mount, a theater carved out of granite rocks, a clifftop castle steeped in Arthurian legend, and three space-age biomes at the Eden Project. You’ll discover that the West is an incredible and natural place.
7. The Jurassic Coast (Bournemouth to Exmouth)
The Jurassic Coast, a 95-mile shoreline with 185 million years of history, is perhaps one of the most popular places in southern England. It’s also among the fantastic UK road trip ideas, with its picture-perfect beaches, craggy cliffs, charming seaside villages, and abundant fossils!
To get to Studland and see Old Harry Rocks, start in Bournemouth and ride the chain ferry over Poole Harbour. The Jurassic Coast’s easternmost point is indicated by these chalk stacks off the island of Purbeck. Continue driving to Lulworth Cove along the shore from there.
Stroll along the scenic coastline before crossing the cliffs to reach the Durdle Door. Next, go to the seaside villages of Lyme Regis, the home of Victorian fossil collector Mary Anning, and Weymouth, with its vibrant fishing harbor. Lastly, travel into Devon to see the Beer white chalk cliffs. On the route to Exmouth, you’ll pass through a few more charming seaside communities.
8. A Loop of the Lake District
The Lake District is a lovely location to see during a UK road trip. It’s frequently gloomy and wet, but that’s all part of what makes England so charming, isn’t it? Whatever the case, driving through the Lake District will provide an unforgettable experience among the peaceful hills and lakes.
Beginning in Kendal, you’ll travel to Windermere, England’s largest natural lake. There are many things to do in this area for the day, one of which is to stroll around the charming streets that connect Bowness and Windermere.
Windermere offers a variety of water activities. As you travel north from Windermere toward Keswick, trek up Loughrigg Terrace, which offers breathtaking views of Grasmere and the surrounding hills. Hiking Derwentwater in Keswick provides beautiful views of the hills on the other side of the lake.
Visit The George Pub for a pint and some English-style fish & chips. And for families traveling with children, there’s the famous Pencil Museum. Once you leave Keswick, you’ll start the truly outdoor section of the journey as you head south. Proceed cautiously when going up the passes, and be aware of the hazardous routes.
Take a little trek at Buttermere to get some views of Buttermere and Crummock Water. Then, take in the peace and quiet before making the lengthy (but beautiful) journey around to Boot for the evening.
After your stay at Boot, take a lengthy climb up (or close to) Scafell Pike, the largest mountain in England. Once you’ve completed your journey, return to Ambleside by climbing over Hardknott Pass.
9. Atlantic Highway
The Atlantic Highway is a part of the A39 that runs from Barnstaple to Fraddon, which is close to Newquay. It is frequently cited as one of the most picturesque drives in the world. Also, it’s one of the best UK road trip ideas. It makes sense, given the lush forests, charming coastal towns, and craggy shoreline that greet you as you head southwest!
While the Atlantic Highway begins technically at Barnstaple, one of the best road trips in the UK starts at Bath and travels down the A39 into Cornwall. You’ll go across three counties and some breathtaking landscapes.
Continue to the breathtaking bays and beaches along the coast from Barnstaple to Bude after passing through the Exmoor National Park. The A39 then heads slightly inland, although you may detour back to several locations along the coast. For example, the castle of Tintagel, the beaches of Bude, or the lovely coastal town of Padstow.
10. The Cotswolds
This excursion winds through the heart of one of England’s most sought-after regions, from the less-traveled, incredibly picturesque villages in the southwest Cotswolds to the breathtakingly gorgeous gold-colored streets of Cotswolds. See the splendor of Georgian Bath, stand in awe of the serene beauty of Painswick, and discover Roman history in Cirencester.
After seeing the stunning collection of riverbank cottages in charming Bibury, you can stroll along the honey-colored alleys of Chipping Campden. Finally, end your trip in dramatic Tudor style at Stratford-upon-Avon, the home of the renowned Bard, William Shakespeare.
11. Peak District and Derbyshire
This leisurely UK family trip covers all the major must-see locations in the Derbyshire Dales and Peak District. Derbyshire offers plenty of adventure, history, and delicious cuisine for such a small area. It’s among the best UK road trip ideas.
This seven-day itinerary can take you from south to north, stopping at charming villages along the way and the lovely cities of Matlock, Matlock Bath, Bakewell, and Castleton. You will be sleeping in yurts and going camping.
You will also tour many stately homes, eat in gastropubs, and rest your weary legs in several exquisitely renovated pubs. You’ll need a lot of energy, especially if you decide to go on one of these top walks in the Peak District.
On this extensive tour across the Peak District, you will pass by famous Derbyshire peaks, gardens, caverns, dales, and parks. You’ll also see reservoirs and rock formations, so don’t forget your walking shoes. On this action-packed tour to Derbyshire’s National Park, you’ll climb along viaducts, jump over stepping stones, visit the darkest caves, and enjoy waterfalls.
But don’t worry, if history is what you’re interested in, you can take a steam train ride. You can also explore historic mills and pump houses and walk through halls that date back hundreds of years. Don’t forget to marvel at the scale of the architecture and stroll through graceful towns with bustling tea shops serving some of the best desserts in England.
12. South West Coastal 300
Traveling the South West Coastal 300 is the ideal way to experience Scotland’s many attractions by car. However, don’t forget your road trip checklist. It is essential for any journey. This UK road trip allows you to fit a lot into a short period of time, including breathtaking scenery, unspoiled beaches, thrilling adventures, mouthwatering cuisine, and intriguing history.
Magnificent lochs and rolling hills thrive in South West Scotland. There is so much to learn, including famous landscapes and historical locations. Highlights are the magnificent Culzean Castle and Caerlaverock Castle. The South West Coastal 300 is a 300-mile loop that begins and ends in the charming town of Dumfries. However, you are free to start and finish at any place along the way.
It travels through areas like Stranraer, Wanlockhead, and Ayrshire and eventually arrives at Mull of Galloway, which is the southernmost point of Scotland. The route is appropriate for vehicles and camper vans because it largely consists of quiet country roads. So you’re free to have a camping trip there!
13. The Military Road and the Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the UK. This is because of its charming towns and villages, cliff edge, sandy beaches, and stunning wildlife and vegetation. It’s also among the top UK road trip ideas for friends and families. Commence at Portsmouth; it takes about two hours to get there from London by car. You board a ferry to reach a distant world from there.
There’s no need to rush when exploring the Isle of Wight because life moves much more slowly. Simple things to do first: unwind on Ryde Beach, which is among the UK’s most stunning beaches.
The following day, visit the Garlic Farm, a particularly “smelly” spot. Everything there is made of garlic, including the ice cream, making it a truly unique experience! Shanklin, a charming village, and a breathtaking trip down the Military Road should be on your itinerary next.
There are numerous breathtaking cliffs as you drive through the Isle of Wight AONB. See a few of the important sites in the Isle of Wight’s western region on your final day there. Take a short climb to see The Needles, and before you catch the boat from Yarmouth, spend a couple of hours at the pebble beach in Alum Bay.
14. Yorkshire (Ingleton to Whitby)
Yorkshire is one of the top destinations in the United Kingdom for road trips. There’s a wide variety of landscapes to uncover! Before visiting Malham Cove, explore the waterfalls, caverns, and hiking trails near Ingleton. This 230-foot-high natural stone theater appeared in the Harry Potter films.
Choose a day to trek the breathtaking circular trail in Malham. Explore York’s museums, take a tour of York Minster, or stroll the city’s ancient walls as you visit this historic city. Travel through the breezy Yorkshire Moors and pause to hike into the 400-foot-deep and ½-mile-wide Hole of Horcum, a naturally occurring amphitheater.
Make a detour to the car-free settlement of Robin Hood Bay. Here, you can explore the cobblestone streets and go fossil hunting on the sandy shore. Visit Whitby on the Yorkshire Coast to round out your road journey. Experience the famous fish and chip dinner or ascend the 199 stone steps of the village to reach the Whitby Abbey ruins atop a cliff.
Conclusion
There you have it – the best UK trip ideas. As your UK road trip ends, remember the stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and warm hospitality that made your journey unforgettable. With memories of rolling hills, beautiful beaches, and historic landmarks, you’ll be eager to plan your next UK road trip adventure. Thanks for reading!
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